Rising cost of slow process

THE cost of Watlington’s neighourhood plan is rising. Nick Hancock, former chairman of the parish council’s

THE cost of Watlington’s neighourhood plan is rising. Nick Hancock, former chairman of the parish council’s neighbourhood plan core committee, said that about £18,000 had been spent so far, most of which came from grants from South Oxfordshire District Council and Locality, a network of community-led organisations. However, the cost was “eating” into the council’s funds.

Councillor Hancock said there was about £8,000 remained in the council’s budget but added: “I don’t believe that will cover it.” Councillor Tim Horton, chairman of the finance committee, said the rising cost was news to him.

A date for a referendum on the plan has been set for September 30 but Cllr Hancock said this wouldn’t be met.

He said this raised questions about the continued enthusiasm of the community and parish council as well as the incoming government for the neighbourhood plan initiative.